Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Dodgers kicked off the Freeway Series with a dominant 7–1 win over the Angels on Sunday night, but manager Dave Roberts’ postgame comments made it clear that the spotlight wasn’t just on the scoreboard—it was also on player health and development.
The biggest concern surrounds star infielder Mookie Betts, who has been battling a mysterious illness.
“Tomorrow he’s not going to play tomorrow night,” Roberts said. “He’s going to try to get through a full day of working out… we’ll see how Monday goes.” While Roberts emphasized he’s not overly worried long-term, he admitted, “It’s certainly not ideal as we look at the home opener.”
Betts’ condition has been particularly alarming, as he’s reportedly been vomiting after nearly every meal and struggling to keep weight on. “We talked about he’s lost weight, having trouble holding food down,” Roberts said. “The recovery hasn’t been great… we’ve done a lot of blood work and seeing doctors… trying to figure out the root of this.”
Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman continues his measured return to full action. He played part of the game as planned. “It was kind of planned for him to just take two at-bats today, play four or five innings of defense… as far as coming out of tonight, he feels good,” Roberts confirmed.
Rookie pitcher Jackson Ferris also earned praise after holding his own against a Major League lineup. “I thought Jackson really carries himself as a seasoned veteran,” Roberts said. “The fastball was really good tonight… he didn’t run from it, so that was good for me to see in a young player.”
And of course, facing longtime Dodger closer Kenley Jansen in a different uniform brought a mix of nostalgia and strangeness. “It still looks weird seeing him in another uniform outside of a Dodger uniform,” Roberts admitted.
The Dodgers will continue tuning up for Opening Day, hoping Betts rebounds quickly and the positive momentum continues.
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